If there’s one beauty trend making a major comeback, it’s grunge makeup.

Once the signature look of the rebellious ’90s, it’s now evolved into a modern aesthetic that’s equal parts edgy and effortlessly chic.

Think smudged eyeliner, lived-in lipstick, and that “I didn’t try too hard, but I still look incredible” vibe.

Think of it as the rebellious sister of the dark feminine makeup trend: less polished, more powerful, and dripping with attitude.

From ’90s icons to modern muses like Jenna Ortega, grunge is making its comeback and it’s bolder, moodier, and sexier than ever.

1. Metallic Siren Grunge

Credit: facesbyadam

If glam and grunge makeup had a love child, this would be it.

The metallic silver shadow instantly grabs attention, but it’s the smoky under-eye smudge that keeps things edgy and raw.

Paired with fluttery lashes and glossy nude lips, this look takes the messy, rockstar vibe of 90s grunge makeup and polishes it into something sultry enough for a night out.

It’s the perfect inspo if you love soft grunge makeup. Rebellious, but still Instagram-worthy.

You May Like: Steal Sabrina Carpenter’s Glowy Barbie Glam Makeup Routine

2. Smoky Neutral Grunge

Credit: dianashin

Who says grunge makeup has to mean messy eyeliner and dark lipstick? This look proves you can channel the same rebellious energy with a softer, more wearable twist.

The smoldering black liner on the lower lash line nods to 90s grunge makeup, while the warm, bronzy tones on the lids and cheeks keep everything modern and chic.

Pair it with glossy nude lips and slicked-back hair, and you’ve got a polished take on soft grunge makeup—perfect for date night or a rooftop party.

3. Retro Edge Grunge

Credit: aimeetwistartistry

This look channels that effortless ’90s cool without trying too hard.

The soft white highlight on the inner lid contrasts perfectly with the smoked-out shadow, creating a sharp, editorial edge.

Paired with glossy brown lips, it’s a nod to the decade when grunge makeup was at its peak—moody, bold, but still wearable.

Think of it as vintage rebellion with a modern gloss.

4. Lilac Glow Grunge

Credit: xsonika

This look proves that grunge makeup doesn’t have to be all dark shadows and heavy liner.

The wash of lilac shimmer on the lids adds a playful pop of color, while the smoked-out edges keep the vibe moody and cool.

Paired with glossy lips and sleek face-framing strands, it feels like a Y2K remix of classic grunge—edgy, but still fresh and modern.

It’s perfect for when you want your makeup to say “I’m mysterious,” but still keep things a little dreamy.

5. Frosted Shadow Grunge

Credit: aoifeartist

There’s something quietly striking about this look.

The icy wash of silver across the lids paired with diffused liner shadow gives it that unmistakable grunge makeup edge, while still feeling clean and wearable.

The glossy lips soften the drama, making it the kind of look that works just as well for a night out as it does for an editorial-style selfie.

Minimal, moody, and a little frosted—it’s proof that grunge doesn’t always have to be heavy to make a statement.

6. Steel Blue Grunge

Credit: frankieedarling

This look is pure drama in the best way.

The metallic blue shadow feels almost ethereal as it catches the light, while the smoky edges keep it grounded in that signature grunge makeup mood.

Dark, glossy lips and oversized hoops add extra attitude, creating a vibe that’s rebellious yet otherworldly.

It’s the kind of look that makes you feel like the main character—fearless, magnetic, and just a little dangerous.

7. Sleek Liner Grunge

Credit: isabellrrose

Nothing says grunge makeup quite like kohl-rimmed eyes, and this look nails it.

The precise liner hugs both the upper and lower lash line, creating that sultry, wide-eyed effect that defined the ’90s.

Paired with soft shadow and glossy lips, it feels minimal yet alluring—like the kind of beauty that turns heads without needing to shout.

This is the everyday version of grunge: sleek, wearable, and endlessly cool.

8. Old Hollywood Grunge Perfection

Credit: nikki_makeup

This look takes the smoky intensity of grunge makeup and dresses it up in pure vintage glamour.

The sharp, smoldering eyes nod to the rebellious spirit of the ’90s, while the flawless skin, sculpted hair, and delicate nude lip bring in that old-Hollywood elegance.

It’s a reminder that grunge doesn’t have to mean gothic — it can be classy, timeless, and impossibly chic.

A perfect balance of edge and sophistication, this is the kind of makeup that makes you feel like a starlet with a dark twist.

9. Dark Siren Grunge

Credit: seminamari

This look is unapologetically powerful. The razor-sharp wing and smoky shadow draw the eyes in, but it’s the deep, glossy lined brown lips that steal the show.

It’s a darker, more daring side of grunge makeup, one that feels equal parts femme fatale and modern-day siren.

Paired with sleek hair and layered jewelry, it’s giving mysterious main character energy—the kind of vibe that makes people wonder what secret you’re keeping.

10. Soft Grunge Glam

Credit: tashjanecollins

This look is the definition of drama with refinement.

The bold smoky eye brings that unmistakable grunge makeup intensity, but it’s softened by diffused edges and perfectly blended blush.

The metallic bronze lips tie everything together, adding warmth and glamour to what could otherwise feel harsh.

It’s the perfect middle ground: strong enough to channel grunge, soft enough to feel wearable and modern.

The kind of makeup that makes a statement without saying a word.

11. Smoky Metallic Edge

Credit: frankieedarling

This one’s all about contrast. The shimmer on the lids adds light, while the dark, blown-out shadow around the eyes keeps it moody and raw.

Paired with muted taupe lips and a sleek updo, it feels like the cooler, modern cousin of classic 90s grunge makeup.

It’s bold without being overdone, a reminder that the best grunge makeup looks strike that balance between polished and perfectly imperfect.

12. Classic Grunge Eyes

Credit: malinafaye

Sometimes less really is more.

This look brings it back to the roots of grunge makeup with a dark, smoky eye that’s soft around the edges and just a little imperfect—exactly how it should be.

The flushed cheeks and natural lip balance the intensity, making it feel modern while still honoring that effortless, “I woke up like this” vibe.

Think of it as the everyday version of a grunge makeup look: simple, sultry, and timelessly cool.

13. Rock ’n’ Roll Grunge

Credit: johannaherrstedt

This is grunge makeup at its most iconic: smudged black liner, undone texture, and that “just walked out of a late-night gig” energy.

The shadow sits heavy around the eyes for a lived-in, rebellious feel, while the soft red lip adds just enough polish to make it sultry instead of sloppy.

Paired with tousled hair and blunt bangs, it’s the kind of look that doesn’t ask for attention—it demands it.

14. Party Girl Grunge

Credit: isabellrrose

This look takes the wild spirit of a night out and wraps it in smoky perfection.

The dark, diffused shadow gives that unmistakable grunge makeup intensity, while the shimmer layered on top adds just the right touch of glam.

Glossy lips and tousled waves keep the vibe playful, making it a perfect mix of rebellious and irresistible.

It’s the makeup equivalent of staying out until sunrise—bold, fun, and unforgettable.

Grunge Makeup Is Trending This Season And We’re Here For It!

The beauty of grunge makeup is how timeless and versatile it is.

From sharp smoky eyes to glossy dark lips, every look tells its own story, sometimes soft and ethereal, other times bold and unapologetic.

You could be going for a polished night-out moment or a messy, lived-in liner, there’s a grunge look that will fit your mood.

At the end of the day, it’s less about perfection and more about the confidence to rock it!